UAE and France call for closer coordination on maritime security

ABU DHABI — UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday called for closer coordination to safeguard maritime security and global energy supplies, according to Arab News, citing the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

The two leaders discussed regional developments and efforts to contain their impact on international shipping and energy markets during Macron's official visit to the UAE, according to the report. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic coordination to promote regional security and stability, and said they supported efforts to achieve lasting peace.

The talks also covered the strategic partnership between the two countries. According to Arab News, the leaders discussed expanding cooperation in investment, energy, advanced technology and artificial intelligence. They reaffirmed their commitment to advancing joint projects in key sectors.

Arab News did not report any specific measures or agreements arising from the talks. It was not stated what form the proposed coordination would take.

The visit is part of a Gulf tour. According to Arab News, Macron began the tour in Kuwait earlier on Monday and is scheduled to visit Bahrain and Qatar after the UAE.

Background

Arab News reported that the visit comes amid heightened regional tensions and disruptions to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway through which a significant share of global oil supplies passes.

The report said maritime security has also worsened in the Red Sea and Bab Al-Mandab Strait, where Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militia has stepped up attacks on commercial shipping. According to Arab News, France has taken part in efforts to protect maritime traffic through the EU's Aspides naval mission, which was launched in 2024 in response to Houthi attacks.